COVID-19 KIDNEY CANCER

Hi,

I had a kidney removed 5 yrs ago. Just wondering if I would be one to be considered at risk? Planning to return to work next week after a week of self isolating.

Thanks

Stephen

[WhollyAligned]

Hi Stephen. Short answer is no. The latest medical advice (source Kidney Care UK) is that someone who has one kidney is not at higher risk. This is based on your kidney function being good and no other complicating factors that might change your status.

Usual social distancing of course applies to us all alongside all the other protective measures!

Best,

Ciara

[Celtic]

Stephen, if you have just a sole kidney it is very likely to be lower functioning than someone with two kidneys. Do you know what your eGFR is? Bearing in mind that among the main complications for anyone who contracts Covid-19 are pneumonia and kidney failure, perhaps it would be wise to err on the side of caution and keep safe.

[RickHow]

I too had a kidney removed (2 years ago). My kidney doctor told me this does not put me at higher risk of catching the virus. The difference is after you catch the virus. If you have a good functioning kidney (no protein in urine, etc.) then your recovery would be like a person with two. Now what is good functioning? You may have a slightly higher creatinine level than a person with 2 kidneys. But this does not indicate the kidney is not functioning. It just is trying to do the work of 2. For example (in usa) the highest "normal" creatine level is 1.5. With one kidney a level of 1.7, sometimes 1.8, and remaining constant (not increasing over time) is considered normal. Just to normal things. Stay home. Keep distance. Wash hands the minute you get home (or sooner) if you touch surfaces. Keep hands away from face until after you get to wash hands. This is enough is you live alone. It with others, do the same steps frequently (wash hands, etc.).

[Kimllever]

I have spoken to my Occupational Health department today. I am in a similar position as you. I too lost a kidney to cancer 5 years ago and have an egfr of 38. I was told by NHS O/H that we would be in the at risk group but not high risk groups. As I work in NHS clinics I was advised to socially isolate and not go to work. I will take their advice and keep myself safe.